A proposal by Sens. Richard Martinez and William Soules would increase the rate to $8.50 an hour. Only three states - Washington, Oregon and Vermont - have higher minimum wages.

A separate proposal by Rep. Miguel Garcia would require automatic cost-of-living increases in the wage rate. Garcia's proposal would be placed on the 2014 general election ballot if it's approved by the Legislature.

The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce opposes the wage proposals, saying businesses would cut jobs if higher pay was required.

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